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The electrocardiographic early repolarization pattern in athletes: normal variant or sudden death risk factor?
Varsha Keelara Tanguturi1, Peter A Noseworthy, Christopher Newton-Cheh
1Department of Medicine, Brigham and Womens Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
Sports Medicine (Auckland, N.Z.)
|April 4, 2012
Summary
Early repolarization pattern (ERP) on electrocardiograms (ECGs) in athletes, once considered normal, may indicate increased risk for sudden cardiac death (SCD). This review explores its evolving understanding and relevance for athlete care.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Sports Medicine
- Electrocardiography
Background:
- Interpreting electrocardiograms (ECGs) in athletes is crucial for pre-participation screening.
- Distinguishing exercise-induced cardiac adaptations from underlying cardiovascular disease on ECGs can be challenging.
- Recent guidelines aid in differentiating these findings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the evolving understanding of the early repolarization pattern (ERP) in athletes.
- To explore the implications of ERP as a potential marker for sudden cardiac death (SCD) risk.
- To discuss the relevance of ERP for clinicians caring for athletes.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent studies on early repolarization pattern (ERP).
- Analysis of clinical guidelines for ECG interpretation in athletes.
- Synthesis of data regarding ERP and sudden cardiac death (SCD) risk.
Main Results:
- Early repolarization pattern (ERP), characterized by J-point elevation, is common in athletes.
- Historically viewed as a benign finding, recent data suggest ERP may be associated with increased SCD risk in the general population.
- The clinical significance of ERP in athletes requires careful consideration.
Conclusions:
- The interpretation of early repolarization pattern (ERP) in athletes is evolving.
- Clinicians must consider the potential link between ERP and sudden cardiac death (SCD) risk.
- Further research is needed to clarify the precise role of ERP in athlete cardiovascular health.
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